Choosing the right backpacking boot matters — it can make a multi-day trip comfortable and safe or turn it into a slog. This guide presents four top men's backpacking boots available today, selected after cross-checking hands-on testing data, expert opinions, and real user feedback to match a range of budgets and uses.
Considerations and Methodology
What we tested and why:
- Real-world usage: We prioritized comfort on long miles, ankle support with a pack, water resistance on wet trails, traction on varied terrain, and durability under repeated use.
- Technical features: Membrane type (Gore‑Tex or proprietary membranes), upper materials (suede/full-grain leather vs. synthetic/mesh), midsole construction (EVA/MD/PU), and outsole compound (Vibram/Contagrip/rugged rubber) were used to evaluate performance and longevity.
- Fit & comfort: Break-in behavior, removable insoles, and volume (narrow/wide fit) were considered since foot shape hugely affects real-world comfort.
- User feedback & expert reviews: We aggregated consumer reviews for failure modes (seams, sole separation, waterproofing loss) and checked pro reviewers’ notes for long-term durability and pack-specific support.
- Price-to-performance: We compared features against price to surface the best value choices.
We combined lab-style feature comparisons with field-usage reports and long-trail tester notes. That blend produced rankings focused on reliability, comfort under load, and overall value.
Budget Waterproof Hikers
A highly affordable waterproof hiking shoe offering surprising traction and cushioning for day hikes and short backpacking trips. Lightweight with a wide forefoot fit and closed tongue, it’s a great low-cost option for casual trail use and wet weather conditions.
Why it made the list: These shoes deliver core features — a waterproof breathable membrane, rubber outsole with multi-directional grip, and a comfortable EVA midsole — at a very low price. Performance notes: they’re lightweight, break in quickly, and the closed tongue keeps out debris. Trade-offs: construction and materials aren’t as durable as premium leather boots, so expect a shorter lifespan under heavy backpacking loads. Best for: hikers who want a capable, budget-friendly shoe for day hikes, wet-weather walks, or occasional overnight trips.
Technical details: waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, rubber traction outsole, wide forefoot fit. Price-conscious buyers get good traction and cushioning, but not the long-term resilience of higher-end backpacking boots.
Waterproof Trekking Boots
A mid-priced waterproof hiking boot with a reinforced heel and rubber toe cap for protection, MD shock-absorbent midsole and a multi-directional traction outsole. Solid everyday option for varied terrain without premium price-tag compromises.
Why it made the list: These boots strike a pragmatic balance between protection, comfort, and price. The rubber toe cap and reinforced heel provide real protection on rough trails, while the removable, flexible insole plus MD midsole deliver comfortable cushioning for long days. Traction: the rugged rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs offers confident grip on wet and loose surfaces. Trade-offs: the upper uses suede-like materials that will show wear faster than full-grain leather, but that’s acceptable for the price.
Technical details: waterproof membrane construction, rubber toe cap, MD shock-absorbent midsole, removable insole, multi-directional traction outsole. Recommended for hikers who want dependable protection and comfort for extended day hikes and light backpacking without spending on premium leather or advanced membranes.
Salomon Backpacking Boot
A premium mid-cut backpacking boot with suede upper, Gore‑Tex waterproofing, and Contagrip outsole designed for heavy packs and mixed terrain. It combines durability, weather protection, and supportive fit for multi-day treks.
Why it made the list: This model brings a backpacking‑specific design: premium suede leather, a Gore‑Tex membrane for reliable waterproofing and breathability, and a high-collar construction with reinforced areas to support heavy loads. Traction: Contagrip rubber outsole provides confident bite on mixed terrain and loose surfaces. Comfort & support: the boot’s structure and cushioning are tuned for carrying packs over long distances, offering stability without sacrificing mobility. Trade-offs: it’s pricier than mass-market options and heavier than lightweight trail shoes, but that weight buys durability and pack-specific support.
Technical details: premium suede leather upper, Gore‑Tex lining, Contagrip outsole, mid-cut with reinforced heel and ankle support. Best for: multi-day backpacking, rugged terrain, and hikers who prioritize long-term durability and weatherproofing.
Asolo Long-Distance Boot
A high-end long-distance backpacking boot featuring full-grain leather, Gore‑Tex lining and a Vibram outsole. Built for endurance, this boot prioritizes durability, protection, and grippy traction for technical, extended trips.
Why it made the list: The Asolo TPS 520 EVO is a classic long-distance backpacking choice. Its full-grain leather upper and Gore‑Tex lining provide robust weather protection and abrasion resistance. The Vibram outsole is purpose-built for sustained grip and longevity on technical trails. Support and stability are engineered for heavy loads and extended mileage, and the wider platform aids balance with a pack. Trade-offs: premium materials and construction come with a higher price and longer break‑in period, but many thru‑hikers and long‑distance trekkers prefer these trade-offs for the boot’s lifespan and dependability.
Technical details: full-grain leather upper, Gore‑Tex lining, Vibram outsole, backpacking-focused mid-cut support. Best for: serious backpackers, multi-day or thru‑hike itineraries, and anyone who wants a boot they can rely on season after season.
Comparison and Summary
At a glance:
- Best Budget Pick — Budget Waterproof Hikers (Grand Attack): Extremely affordable, waterproof membrane, good traction for day hikes and wet-weather use. Not built for heavy loads or long-term durability.
- Best Value for Money — Waterproof Trekking Boots (NORTIV 8): Solid protection (rubber toe cap, reinforced heel), comfortable midsole, and strong traction at a mid-range price point.
- Premium Choice — Salomon Backpacking Boot (Salomon Quest Rove): Premium suede upper, Gore‑Tex waterproofing, Contagrip outsole, designed to support heavier packs over multi-day routes.
- Editors Choice — Asolo Long-Distance Boot (ASOLO TPS 520 EVO): Full-grain leather, Gore‑Tex, and Vibram outsole for maximum durability, protection, and traction on long, technical trips.
Which is best overall?
- For most serious backpackers who want long-term reliability and protection under load, the Asolo Long-Distance Boot is the top overall pick — its materials and construction are tailored to extended trekking and heavy packs.
Best alternatives by need:
- Tight budget / occasional hikes: Budget Waterproof Hikers (Grand Attack).
- Great everyday backpacking value: Waterproof Trekking Boots (NORTIV 8).
- Premium, lighter-feel technical backpacking with brand-backed tech: Salomon Backpacking Boot.
Final Recommendation
All four boots were selected from a wide pool of options based on hands-on performance data, expert evaluations, and aggregated user feedback. If you want one go-to boot for season-after-season backpacking with heavy loads and technical terrain, choose the Asolo Long-Distance Boot. If you want top-tier modern backpacking tech with strong waterproofing and durable yet breathable materials, the Salomon is an excellent premium alternative. For value-conscious hikers who still need reliable protection and traction, the NORTIV 8 model is our best-value pick. And for casual hikers or those on a strict budget, the Grand Attack option provides surprising capability for its price.
Choosing the right boot depends on your typical trip length, pack weight, and terrain. Match these recommendations to your needs: heavy pack + multi-day = Asolo or Salomon; frequent day trips and light overnighting = NORTIV 8; rare hikes and tight budget = Grand Attack. These recommendations reflect a synthesis of thorough testing, technical spec comparison, and real-world user experience.